BR102016023869A2 - QUICK COUPLING - Google Patents

Abstract

quick coupler is a quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine. the quick coupler has at least one mounting means for attaching to a machine and one fastening means for attaching the quick coupler to an implement. the quick coupler also has at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement.

Description

QUICK HITCH

[001] The present invention relates to a quick coupler, in particular a quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine, for example a working machine or a construction machine.

[002] Quick couplers, also known as quick couplers, are installed on work machines such as excavators, backhoes and telescopic handlers to facilitate attaching attachments or attachments, eg buckets or work tools, to machines.

Known quick couplers suffer from the disadvantage that their life cycle is limited by wear and damage that occurs during use.

An additional disadvantage of known quick couplings is that while they facilitate faster installation of attachments or implements on machines, the connection between the attachment or implement and the quick coupler is less robust than for traditional assemblies.

An additional disadvantage of known quick couplings is that it is not immediately apparent to a machine operator if an implement is locked in the quick coupler.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a quick coupler is provided for mounting an implement on a machine, the quick coupler includes at least one mounting means for connecting to a machine and a means for attachment for attaching the quick coupler to an implement, the quick coupler additionally comprising at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement.

The at least one removable plate advantageously extends the quick coupler life cycle as it provides a surface that engages the implement and can be replaced if / when the surface becomes worn in use.

The at least one removable plate may be mounted on an upper surface of the quick coupler. The at least one removable plate may be mounted on an upper surface of the quick coupler by at least one gripping means, for example a bolt.

[010] The at least one removable plate may have a length and the quick coupler may have a length and the ratio of the removable plate length to the quick coupler length may be less than one to three. The ratio of removable plate length to quick coupler length can be greater than one to six.

[011] At least one removable plate can be configured to fit under an edge on an implement.

[012] The at least one removable plate may have a surface that engages a lip in an implement in use. The surface of at least one removable plate may be inclined.

The at least one removable plate may include a metallic material. The at least one removable plate may include steel.

[014] The quick coupler may include at least two removable couplings for coupling with a surface of an implement.

[015] The quick coupler may include a housing. The enclosure may be any enclosure as described in connection with the second aspect of the invention.

[016] The quick coupler may include an above center mechanism. The above center mechanism may be any above center mechanism as described in connection with the third aspect of the invention.

[017] The quick coupler may include a resilient connection. The resilient bond may be any resilient bond as described in connection with the fourth aspect of the invention.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a quick coupler is provided for mounting an implement on a machine, the quick coupler includes a housing, with the housing comprising at least one mounting means for mounting the implement. a housing, wherein the housing accommodates a fastening means for securing the quick coupler to an implement, wherein the fastening means has a first position wherein the quick coupler is attached to an implement and a second position wherein the quick coupler is not attached to an implement, and the housing additionally includes a first hole through which a portion of the securing means extends when the securing means is in the first position.

[019] The housing advantageously extends the quick coupler life cycle as it prevents the collection of dirt and debris from the quick coupler mechanism in use.

The fastening means may include a signaling means, the signaling means having a first position to signal that the quick coupler is attached to an implement when the fastening means is in the first position and a second position to signaling that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the securing means is in the second position and the housing additionally includes an opening through which a portion of the signaling means may extend.

The portion of the signaling means may extend through the aperture when the signaling means is in the first position and / or the second position.

[022] Mounting means may include an actuator and / or signaling means may be connected to the actuator.

[023] The actuator can be a manual actuator. The manual actuator may comprise a single cable.

[024] The actuator can be an electric actuator.

The opening may include a cover to prevent dirt or debris from entering the enclosure and through which the portion of the signaling means may extend. The cover may include a plurality of bristles. The cover may include at least one brush.

At least one mounting means may be provided on an outer surface of the enclosure. The at least one mounting means may be a socket.

The housing may include a second hole through which a second portion of the securing means may extend when the securing means is in the first position.

[028] The housing may include at least one removable plate for engagement with a surface of an implement. The at least one removable plate may be any removable plate as described in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

[029] Quick coupler may include an above center mechanism. The above center mechanism may be any above center mechanism as described in connection with the third aspect of the invention.

The quick coupler may include a resilient connection. The resilient bond may be any resilient bond as described in connection with the fourth aspect of the invention.

According to the third aspect of the present invention there is a quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine, the quick coupler includes at least one mounting means for connecting to a machine and a fastening means. for attaching the quick coupler to an implement, the securing means includes an above-center mechanism and a locking member, wherein the above-center mechanism includes a first coupling and a first swivel member, wherein the first member swivel is swiveling on a first geometrical axis D with respect to a quick coupler chassis, a first end of the first link is swiveling on a second end E with respect to a first arm of the first swivel member, and a second end of the first link is swiveling on a third geometry axis F with respect to the locking member, so that with the securing means in a first position where the quick coupling If the axis is fixed to an implement, the geometric axis E lies on the first side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D and F and, with the mounting means in a second position, where the quick coupler is not fixed to In one implement, the geometric axis E lies on the second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D and F.

[032] The above center mechanism advantageously increases the robustness of the connection between the implement or accessory and the quick coupler as it ensures that the locking member is retained in position when the securing means is in the first position.

[033] The locking member may include a projection for engaging an implement when the securing means is in a first position.

The quick coupler may include a first pin and the first rotating member may include a second arm, so that with the securing means in the first position the second arm is adjacent to the first pin and with the medium securing position in the second position, the second arm is spaced from the first pin.

The quick coupler may also include a second pivoting member and the securing means may include a second coupling, wherein a first end of the second pivoting member is rotatable about a fourth geometrical axis A with respect to the quick coupler chassis. , a first end of the second coupling is pivotal on a fifth geometrical axis B with respect to the second pivoting member, and a second end of the second coupling is pivoting on a sixth geometric axis C with respect to the first pivoting member, so that with the clamping means in the first position, the geometric axis B lies on the first side of a straight line drawn between the geometrical axes A and C, and with the clamping means in the second position, the geometric axis B lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes A and C.

[036] A second end of the second rotating member may be an actuator for moving the securing means from the first position to the second position. The actuator may be a manual actuator. The actuator may comprise a single cable.

The second end of the second rotating member may include a signaling means, the signaling means having a first position to signal that the quick coupler is attached to an implement when the securing means is in the first position and a second position to signal that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the securing means is in the second position.

The first bond and / or the second bond may be a resilient bond.

[039] The clamping means may include an actuator that is operatively connected to the first rotating member so that actuating the actuator causes the clamping means to move from the first position to the second position.

[040] The actuator can be a threaded actuator. The actuator may be an electric actuator.

The quick coupler may include a second pin and the first swivel member may include a leg, so that with the securing means in the first position the leg is adjacent to the second pin and with the securing means In the second position, the leg is spaced from the second pin.

[042] The leg may include a signaling means, the signaling means having a first position to signal that the quick coupler is attached to an implement when the attachment means is in the first position and a second position to signal that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the attachment means is in the second position.

The first bond may be a resilient bond.

The mechanism above the center of the fastening means may be a first mechanism above the center, the locking member may be a first locking member, the first connection may be a first connection, the first rotating member may be a first rotating member, first geometry axis D may be first geometry axis, second end E may be first second extremity, first arm of first rotating member may be first arm and third geometry axis F may be first third axis geometric means, the securing means may additionally include a second above center mechanism and a second locking member, the second above center mechanism may include a second first coupling and a second first rotary member, wherein the second first rotating member can be rotated on a second first geometry axis D 'relative to a quick coupler chassis, a first end of the The second first coupling may be rotatable at a second end E 'with respect to a second first arm of the second first rotating member, and a second end of the second first coupling may be rotatable at a second third geometrical axis F' with respect to the second member. such that, with the fastening means in a first position, where the quick coupler is attached to an implement, the geometric axis E 'lies on a first side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D' and F 'e, with the securing means in a second position, where the quick coupler is not attached to an implement, the geometric axis E' lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D 'and F '.

The quick coupler may additionally include at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement. The at least one removable plate may be any removable plate as described in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

The quick coupler may additionally include a housing. The enclosure may be any enclosure as described in connection with the second aspect of the invention.

The resilient bond may be any resilient bond as described in connection with the fourth aspect of the invention.

In accordance with the fourth aspect of the present invention, a quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine is provided, the quick coupler includes at least one mounting means for connecting to a machine and a means for attachment for securing the quick coupler to an implement, the attachment means comprising a locking member and a second swivel member, wherein the locking member and the second swivel member are connected by a resilient connection; wherein the securing means has a first position where the quick coupler is attached to an implement and a second position where the quick coupling is not attached to an implement, where when the fastener is in the first position the Resilient bonding allows movement of the securing means to a third position which is between the first position and the second position.

[049] Resilient coupling advantageously increases the robustness of the connection between implement or accessory and quick coupler as it ensures positive engagement of the locking member and maintains the quick coupling in compression to prevent the locking members from becoming loose. and noisy, which can cause the implement to become displaced from the quick coupler.

[050] The locking member may have a first position when the securing means is in the first position and a second position when the securing means is in the third position and the first and second positions of the locking member may be separated by a axial distance.

[051] The axial distance may be less than 20mm, preferably less than 16mm. The axial distance may be greater than 10 millimeters, preferably greater than 12 millimeters.

The securing means may additionally include a first coupling, a first pivoting member, and a second coupling, wherein the first pivoting member is rotatable on a first geometry axis D with respect to a quick coupler chassis, a first coupling. end of the first connection is rotatable at a second end E with respect to a first arm of the first rotating member, a second end of the first connection is rotatable at a third geometrical axis F with respect to the locking member, a first end of the second rotating member is rotatable on a fourth geometry axis A relative to the quick coupler chassis, a first end of the second coupling is rotatable on a fifth geometric axis B relative to the second pivoting member, and a second end of the second coupling is rotatable on a sixth axis C in relation to the first rotating limb.

[053] One or more of the first link, the first swivel member, the second bond and / or the second swivel member may be the resilient bond. The first bond may be the resilient bond.

The quick coupler may include a first pin and the first pivoting member may include a second arm, so that with the securing means in the first position the second arm is adjacent to the first pin and with the medium securing position in the second position, the second arm is spaced from the first pin.

[055] The second pivoting member may include a signaling means, the signaling means may have a first position to signal that the quick coupler is attached to an implement when the attachment means is in the first position and a second position to signal that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the securing means is in the second position.

[056] The locking member can be rotatably connected to the resilient connection.

[057] The second rotating member may be a manual actuator. The manual actuator may comprise a single cable.

[058] Mounting means may include an electric actuator. The electric actuator can be operatively connected to the second rotary member, so that actuator actuation causes the securing means to move from the first position to the second position.

The quick coupler may include a second pin and the second swivel member may include a leg, so that with the securing means in the first position the leg is adjacent to the second pin and with the securing means In the second position, the leg is spaced from the second pin.

The leg may include a signaling means, the signaling means having a first position for signaling that the quick coupler is attached to an implement when the attachment is in the first position and a second position for signaling that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the attachment means is in the second position.

The locking member may be the first locking member, the second rotating member may be the first second rotating member, and the resilient connection may be the first resilient connection, the securing means may also include a second member. and a second first geometry axis, wherein the second locking member and the second first geometry axis are connected by a second resilient connection, wherein when the securing means is in the first position, the second resilient connection allows movement of the securing means to a third position which is between the first position and the second position.

[062] The quick coupler may include at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement. The at least one removable plate may be any removable plate as described in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

[063] The quick coupler may include a housing. The enclosure may be any enclosure as described in connection with the second aspect of the invention.

[064] Quick coupler may include an above center mechanism. The above center mechanism may be any above center mechanism as described in connection with the third aspect of the invention.

[065] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which: [066] Figure 1 is an isometric rear view of a quick coupler according to a first embodiment of the present invention in an unlocked position;

[067] Figure 2 is a rear view of the quick coupler of Figure 1 in an unlocked position;

[068] Figure 3 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 and 2 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in an unlocked position;

[069] Figure 4 is a side view of the quick coupler of Figures 1, 2 and 3 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in an unlocked position;

Figure 5 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 in a locked position;

[671] Figure 6 is a rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 in a locked position;

[072] Figure 7 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 and 4 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in a locked position;

[073] Figure 8 is a side view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 and 4 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in a locked position;

Figure 9 is an isometric rear view of a quick coupler according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an unlocked position;

[075] Figure 10 is a front view of the quick coupler of Figure 9 in an unlocked position;

[076] Figure 11 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 9 and 10 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in an unlocked position;

[077] Figure 12 is a side view of the quick coupler of Figures 9, 10 and 11 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in an unlocked position;

[078] Figure 13 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 9 to 12 in a locked position;

Figure 14 is a front view of the quick coupler of Figures 9 to 12 in a locked position;

[080] Figure 15 is an isometric rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 9 and 12 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in a locked position;

[081] Figure 16 is a side view of the quick coupler of Figures 9 and 12 connected to a shovel with the quick coupler in a locked position;

[17] Figure 17 is a rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 with the locking member in a fully engaged position;

Figure 18 is a rear view of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 with the locking member in a partially engaged position;

[084] Figure 19 is a rear view of the quick coupler fastening means of Figures 9 to 12 with an actuator;

[085] Figure 20 is a rear view of the securing means of Figure 19 without an actuator;

Figure 21 is a rear view of the first mechanism above the center of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 in an unlocked position;

Figure 22 is a rear view of the first mechanism above the center of the quick coupler of Figures 1 to 4 in a locked position; L 0 8 8] Figure 23 is a front view of the first mechanism above the center of the quick coupler of Figures 9 to 12 in an unlocked position; and [089] Figure 24 is a front view of the first mechanism above the center of the quick coupler of Figures 9 to 12 in a locked position.

Referring now to Figures 1 to 8, 17, 18, 21 and 22, a quick coupler 2 according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown.

[091] Figures 1 to 4 and 21 show quick coupler 2 in an unlocked position and Figures 5 to 8, 17, 18 and 22 show quick coupler 2 in a locked position.

[092] Quick coupler 2 has a body 4, mounting means 6a, 6b, 6c for mounting quick coupler 2 on a machine and securing means 8 for attaching an implement to quick coupler 2.

Quick coupler 2 also includes a first pin 49a, second pin 49b and pivots 138, 140, 142, 144, 146. Each of first pin 49a, second pin 49b and pivot 138 having a geometry axis G, pivot 140 having a geometry axis D, pivot 142 having a geometry axis C, pivot 144 having a geometry axis D ', pivot 146 having a geometry axis G' is mounted on a hitch chassis fast 2.

The body 4 has side walls 10, 12, a base 14, an upper surface 16, a front wall 30 and a rear wall 32.

Base 14 has a pair of holes 28a, 28b.

The upper surface 16 has an opening 20 and a plate 22. The plate 22 has an opening 24 which corresponds to the opening 20 on the upper surface 16. The plate 22 has brushes (not shown) within the opening 24.

[097] Front wall 30 is generally U-shaped.

The rear wall 32 includes a pair of access doors 34a, 34b. Mounting means 6a, 6b, 6c are mounted to rear wall 32 and have fittings 7a, 7b, 7c with holes 9a, 9b, 9c for receiving support pins (not shown). The rear wall 32 also includes a pair of upwardly extended arms 18a, 18b. Upwardly extended arms 18a, 18b have removable plates 26a, 26b mounted thereon.

[099] The sidewalls 10, 12, the base 14, the upper surface 16, the front wall 30 and the rear wall 32 of the body provide a casing or wrap for the securing means 8.

[100] The securing means 8 includes a first mechanism above center 36a and a first locking member 38a. The first mechanism above center 36a includes a first coupling 40a and a first pivoting member 42a.

[101] First connector 40a has a first end 50a and a second end 50b. The first end 50a has a pivot 148 having a geometric axis F. As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the first connection 40a is a resilient connection and has a hollow cylindrical body 166, a piston member 168 and a spring 170.

[102] The first swivel member 42a includes a first arm 52, a second arm 54, and a third arm 55. The first arm 52 has a pivot 150 which has a geometry axis E.

[103] The first locking member 38a includes a first projection 48a.

[104] The securing means 8 includes a second mechanism above center 36b and a second locking member 38b. The second mechanism above center 36b includes a second first coupling 40b and a second first swivel member 42b.

[105] The second first connection 40b has a first end 62a and a second end 62b. First end 62a has a pivot 156 which has a geometric axis F '. Similar to first coupling 40a, second coupling 40b is a resilient coupling and has a hollow cylindrical body 172, a piston member 164 and a spring (not shown).

[106] The second first swivel member 42b includes a first arm 64, a second arm 66, and a third arm 67. The first arm 64 has a pivot 158 which has a geometry axis E '.

[107] Second locking member 38b includes a second projection 48b.

[108] The securing means 8 further includes a second connector 44a and a second connector 44b.

[109] Second connector 44a has a first end 56a and a second end 56b. The first end 56a has a pivot 152 which has a geometric axis A. The second end 56b has a pivot 154 that has a geometric axis B.

[110] Second connector 44b has a first end 68a and a second end 68b. First end 68a has a pivot 160 having a geometrical axis A '. Second end 68b has a pivot 162 having a geometry axis B '.

[111] The securing means 8 additionally includes a second pivoting means 46. The second pivoting member 46 has a first end 58a, a second end 58b and a plate 69.

[112] Plate 69 has a first end 65a and a second end 65b. Plate 69 also has three holes 164a, 164b, 164c. Hole 164a is located adjacent to first end 65a of plate 69, hole 164c is adjacent to second end 65b of plate 69 and hole 164b is located between hole 164a and 164c along the length of plate 69.

[113] The quick coupling attachment 2 assembly 8 of the first embodiment will now be described.

[114] The first mechanism above center 36a is mounted as follows.

[115] The first pivot member 42a is pivotally mounted to pivot 140 such that the first pivot member 42a is capable of pivoting relative to the quick coupler chassis 2 about geometry D. The second end 50b of the first coupling 40a is pivotally mounted to the first arm 52 of the first pivoting member 42a, so that the first coupling 40a and the first pivoting member 42a are capable of pivoting about each other about the geometric axis E. The first end 50a of the first coupling 40a is pivotally mounted to first locking member 38a so that first coupling 40a and first locking member 38a are able to rotate relative to each other about axis F. first locking member 38a is rotatably mounted to pivot 138 so that first locking member 38a is capable of pivoting relative to quick coupler chassis 2 about the geometric axis G.

[116] The second mechanism above center 36b is mounted as follows.

[117] The second first pivot member 42b is pivotally mounted to pivot 144 so that the second first pivot member 42b is capable of pivoting relative to the quick coupler chassis about the geometric axis D '. Second end 62b of second first coupling 40b is pivotally mounted to first arm 64 of second first pivot member 42b on pivot 158 so that second first coupling 40b and second first pivot member 42b may rotate relative to each other at a later time. around the geometric axis E '. First end 62a of second first coupling 40b is pivotally mounted to second locking member 38b on pivot 156 so that second first coupling 40b and second locking member 38b can rotate relative to each other about the geometry axis. F '. The second locking member 38b is rotatably mounted to pivot 146 so that the second locking member 38b is capable of pivoting relative to the quick coupler chassis about the geometry axis G '.

[118] The second end 58b of the second pivot member 46 and the central bore 164b of plate 69 are mounted on pivot 142 so that the second pivot member 46 and plate 69 can rotate about the geometric axis C.

[119] The first mechanism above center 36a is connected to the second rotating member 46 and plate 69 by the second connection 44a. The third arm 55 of the first pivoting member 42a is pivotally mounted to the first end 56a of the second coupling 44a so that the first pivoting member 42a and the second coupling 44a can rotate relative to each other about axis A. A second end 56b of second connection 44a is mounted in hole 164a at first end 65a of plate 69 on pivot 154 so that second end 56b of second connection 44a can rotate about axis C.

[120] The second mechanism above center 36b is connected to the second rotating member 46 by the second connection 44b. The third arm 67 of the second first pivoting member 42b is pivotally mounted to the first end 68a of the second coupling 44b so that the second first pivoting member 42b and second coupling 44b can rotate relative to each other about the geometry axis. THE' . Second end 68b of second port 44b is mounted in hole 164c in second end 65b of plate 69 in pivot 162 so that second port 44b can rotate about axis C.

[121] The body 4 is partially constructed by mounting the front wall 30, side walls 10, 12, base 14 and upper surface 16.

[122] The securing means 8 is placed within the partially constructed body 4 so that the first end 68a of the second rotating member 46 extends through the opening 20 on the upper surface 16, the first projection 48a of the first locking member 38a is positioned adjacent to hole 28a in base 14 and second projection 48b of second locking member 38b is positioned adjacent to hole 28b in base 14.

[123] The rear wall 30 is then mounted on the sidewalls 10, 12, the base 14 and the upper surface 16 to complete the body 4.

[124] Plate 22 is mounted on upper surface 16 of body 4 using fasteners 60 so that opening 24 of plate 22 corresponds to opening 20 of upper surface 16 and first end 68a of second rotating member 46 if extend through opening 20 on top surface 16, brushes (not shown) and opening 24 on plate 22.

[125] Removable plate 26a is mounted on upper arm 18a using fasteners 27. Similarly, removable plate 26a is mounted on upper arm 18b using fasteners 27.

[126] The use of quick coupler 2 to mount an implement, for example a shovel 180, as shown in Figures 3, 4, 7 and 8 on a machine (not shown) will now be described.

[127] Quick coupler 2 is attached to the machine (not shown) with rear wall 32 of quick coupler 2 facing the front of the machine (not shown). Mounting means 6a, 6c, 6c are fixed to complementary mounting means (not shown) on the machine (not shown) by pins (not shown).

[128] The blade 180 has a base 182, sidewalls 184a, 184b and a rearwall 186. The rearwall 186 has a lower lip 188, an upper lip 190 and an outer surface 192. The upper lip 190 has a lower surface 189

[129] The machine with the quick coupler 2 in the unlocked position (as shown in Figures 1 to 4) and the blade 180 are placed in close proximity so that the quick coupler front wall 30 is adjacent to the outer surface 192 of the wall. 186. The upper arms 18a, 18b are positioned under the upper lip 190 so that the removable plates 26a, 26b are in contact with the lower surface 189 of the upper lip 190. The quick coupler base 14 is aligned with lower lip 188 so that holes 28a, 28b are adjacent to lower lip 188.

[130] To lock the blade 180 in quick coupler 2, the first end 58a of the second swivel member 46, which acts as a cable or hand actuator, is moved from the position shown in Figures 1 and 2 to the position shown in Figures 5 and 6. First end 58a advantageously provides a single lever or cable for operating, that is, engaging and disengaging the quick coupling mechanism.

[131] This causes the second end 58b of the second pivoting member 46, the second end 56b of the second coupling 44a, and the second end 68b of the second coupling 44b to be rotated counterclockwise about the C axis.

[132] The pivoting movement of the second end 56b of the second connection 44a about pivot C causes the first end 56a of the second connection 44a and the third arm 55 of the first rotating member 42a to rotate clockwise with respect to the geometric axis A , the second arm 54 of the first rotating member 42a rotates clockwise with respect to the geometry axis D and the first arm 52 of the first rotating member 42a rotates clockwise with respect to the geometry axis E.

[133] The distance traveled by the second arm 54 of the first pivoting member 42a is limited by the pin 49a against which the second arm 54 is contiguous when the securing means 8 is in the locked position.

[134] The pivotal movement of the first pivot member 42a causes the second end 50b of the first coupling 40a to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis E and the first end 50a of the first coupling 40a to rotate counterclockwise. relation to the geometric axis F.

[135] The pivoting movement of the first coupling 40a causes the first locking member 38a to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis F, which causes the first projection 48a to move downward and extend through the hole. 28a at base 14.

[136] First projection 48a engages lower edge 188 of blade 180 to lock blade 180 into quick coupler 2.

[137] When the securing means 8 is in the locked position, the upward movement of the first projection 48a is restricted by the resilient connection 40a.

[138] The pivoting movement of the second end 68b of the second coupling 44b about pivot C causes the first end 68a of the second coupling 44b and the third arm 67 of the second first rotating member 42b to rotate counterclockwise. geometrical axis A1, the second arm 66 of the second first rotating member 42b rotates counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis D 'and the first arm 64 of the second first rotating member 42b rotates counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis E' '.

[139] The distance traveled by the second arm 66 of the second first rotating member 42b is limited by the pin 49b against which it is in contiguous position.

[140] The pivotal movement of the second first pivot member 42b causes the second end 62b of the second first coupling 40b to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis E 'and the first end 62a of the second first coupling 40b to rotate counterclockwise. clockwise to the geometric axis F '.

[141] The pivotal movement of the second first connection 40b causes the second locking member 38b to rotate clockwise with respect to the geometric axis F ', which causes the second projection 48b to move downward and extend through the hole 28b in base 14.

[142] The second projection 48b engages the lower edge 188 of the blade 180 to lock the blade 180 into quick coupler 2.

[143] When the securing means 8 is in the locked position, the upward movement of the second projection 48b is restricted by the resilient connection 40b.

[144] When quick coupler 2 is fixed to blade 180 (as shown in Figure 21), the geometric axis E of the first mechanism above center 36a is on a first side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D and F and when the quick coupler is not attached to the blade (as shown in Figure 22), the geometric axis E lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D and F. In a similar manner (not shown in Figures), the geometry axis E 'of the second mechanism above center 36b is on a first side of a straight line drawn between the geometry axes D' and F 'when the quick coupler 2 is fixed to the blade 180 and when the quick coupler 2 is not fixed to the blade 180, the geometric axis E 'lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D' and F '.

[145] In this manner, the first and second projections 48a, 48b are prevented from pushing against the second rotating member 46 when in the locked position.

[146] The inclusion of a resilient or spring-loaded first connection 40a on one side of the securing means and a second first connection 40b on a second side of the securing means 8 ensures positive engagement of the first and second projections 48a, 48b. and holds the securing means 8 in compression to prevent the securing means 8 from failing, which may result in disengagement of the first and second projections 48a, 48b of the lower edge 188 of the blade 180.

[147] Inclusion of the solid piston or piston 168 in a hollow cylindrical body 166 having a spring 170 limits upward movement of the first and second projections 48a, 48b to no more than 15 millimeters when the second rotating member 46 and the securing means 8 are in the locked position. This ensures clamping engagement every time the second pivoting member 46 and clamping means 8 are in the locked position.

[148] The position of the second swivel 46 through the opening 20 on the upper surface 16 and the opening 24 in the plate 22 when the quick coupler 2 is in the unlocked position compared to the position of the second swivel 46 through the opening 20 on top surface 16 and opening 24 on plate 22, when quick coupler 2 is in the locked position, indicates to an operator whether or not the blade 180 is attached to quick coupler 2.

[149] Providing the body 4 for enclosing the securing means prevents damage to the securing means 8 which is caused by dirt and debris. The supply of brushes (not shown) within the plate opening 24 further prevents the ingress of dirt and debris into the quick coupler body 4.

[150] The provision of removable plates 26a, 26b in the arm portions 18a, 18b which engage the lower surface 189 of the upper edge 190 of the blade 180 increases the quick coupler life cycle as the plates 26a, 26b may be removed from quick coupler 2 when worn and replaced with new unused plates.

[151] Referring now to Figures 9 to 16, 9, 20, 23 and 24, a quick coupler 202 according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown.

[152] Figures 9 to 12 and 23 show quick coupler 202 in an unlocked position and Figures 13 to 16 and 24 show quick coupler 202 in a locked position.

[153] Quick coupler 202 has a body 4, mounting means 6a, 6b, 6c for mounting quick coupler 202 on a machine and securing means 208 for attaching an implement to quick coupler 2.

[154] Quick coupler 202 also includes a first pin 49a, second pin 49b, a third pin 249c and pivots 138, 140, 142, 144, 146. Each of first pin 49a, second pin 49b and pivot 138 which has a geometric axis G1 ', pivot 140 which has a geometric axis D' ', pivot 142 which has a geometric axis C' ', pivot 144 which has a geometric axis D' '', pivot 146 which has a G '' geometric shaft is mounted on a quick coupler chassis 202.

[155] The body 4 has side walls 10, 12, a base 14, an upper surface 16, a front wall 30 and a rear wall 32.

[156] Base 14 has a pair of holes 28a, 28b.

[157] Top surface 16 has an opening 20 and a plate 22. Plate 22 has an opening 24 which corresponds to opening 20 on top surface 16. Plate 22 has brushes (not shown) within opening 24.

[158] Front wall 30 is generally U-shaped.

[159] Rear wall 32 includes a pair of access doors 34a, 34b. Mounting means 6a, 6b, 6c are mounted to rear wall 32 and have fittings 7a, 7b, 7c with holes 9a, 9b, 9c for receiving support pins (not shown). The rear wall 32 also includes a pair of upwardly extended arms 18a, 18b. Upwardly extended arms 18a, 18b have removable plates 26a, 26b mounted thereon.

[160] The sidewalls 10, 12, the base 14, the upper surface 16, the front wall 30 and the rear wall 32 of the body provide a casing or wrap for the securing means 208.

[161] Fastening means 208 includes a first mechanism above center 236a and a first locking member 238a. The first mechanism above center 236a includes a first coupling 240a and a first pivoting member 242a.

[162] First coupling 240a has a first end 250a and a second end 250b. First end 250a has a pivot 348 which has a geometric axis F ''. The first coupling 240a is a resilient coupling and (as shown in Figures 17 and 18 with respect to the first coupling 40a of the first embodiment) has a hollow cylindrical body 166, a piston member 168 and a spring 170.

[163] As shown in Figure 20, first swivel member 242a includes a first arm 252, a second arm 254, a third arm 255, and a leg 253. First arm 252 has a pivot 350 that has an E'A geometry axis. leg 253 has a hook portion 253a.

[164] The first locking member 238a includes a first projection 248a.

[165] Fastening means 208 includes a second mechanism above center 236b and a second locking member 238b. The second mechanism above center 236b includes a second first coupling 240b and a second first rotating member 242b.

[166] The second first connection 240b has a first end 262a and a second end 262b. First end 262a has a pivot 356 which has a geometric axis F '' '. Similar to first coupling 240a, second coupling 240b is a resilient coupling and has a hollow cylindrical body 372, a piston member 374 and a spring (not shown).

[167] The second first swivel member 242b includes a first arm 264, a second arm 266 and a third arm 267. The first arm 264 has a pivot 358 which has an E '' geometric axis.

[168] The second locking member 238b includes a second projection 248b.

[169] Clamping means 208 additionally includes an actuator 360. As shown most clearly in Figure 19, actuator 360 has a threaded actuator 362 and a motor 364. The threaded actuator 362 has a first end 366a and a second end 366b.

[170] The quick coupling attachment assembly 208 of the second embodiment will now be described.

[171] The first mechanism above center 236a is mounted as follows.

[172] The first pivot member 242a is pivotally mounted to pivot 340 so that the first pivot member 242a is capable of pivoting relative to the quick coupler chassis 202 about the geometry axis D ''. The second end 250b of the first coupling 240a is rotatably mounted to the first arm 252 of the first pivoting member 242a so that the first coupling 240a and the first pivoting member 242a are able to rotate relative to each other about the geometric axis E ''. First end 250a of first coupling 240a is rotatably mounted to first locking member 238a so that first coupling 240a and first locking member 238a are able to rotate relative to each other about the geometric axis F 'O first locking member 238a is pivotally mounted to pivot 338 so that first locking member 238a is capable of pivoting relative to quick coupler chassis 202 about geometry axis G ''.

[173] The second mechanism above center 236b is mounted as follows.

[174] The second first pivot member 242b is pivotally mounted to pivot 344 so that the second first pivot member 242b is capable of pivoting relative to the quick coupler chassis about the geometric axis D '' '. The second end 262b of the second first coupling 240b is rotatably mounted to the first arm 264 of the second first rotating member 242b on pivot 358 so that the second first coupling 240b and the second first rotating member 242b can rotate relative to each other in around the geometric axis E '' '. First end 262a of second first coupling 240b is rotatably mounted to second locking member 238b on pivot 356 so that second first coupling 240b and second locking member 238b may rotate relative to each other about the geometry axis. F '' '. The second locking member 238b is pivotally mounted to the pivot 346 so that the second locking member 238b is able to rotate relative to the quick coupler chassis 202 about the geometric axis G '' '.

[175] The first mechanism above center 236a is connected to the second mechanism above center 236b via actuator 360. The second arm 255 of first rotary member 242a is mounted on first end 366a of threaded actuator 360. Third arm 267 of the second first rotary member 242b is mounted on the second end 366b of the screw actuator 362.

[176] The body 4 is partially constructed by mounting the front wall 30, side walls 10, 12, base 14 and upper surface 16.

[177] The securing means 208 is placed within the partially constructed body 4 so that the leg 253 of the first swivel member 242a extends through the opening 20 on the upper surface 16, the first projection 248a of the first locking member 238a is positioned adjacent to hole 28a in base 14 and second projection 248b of second locking member 238b is positioned adjacent to hole 28b in base 14.

[178] Back wall 30 is then mounted on side walls 10, 12, base 14 and top surface 16 to complete body 4.

[179] Plate 22 is mounted on upper surface 16 of body 4 using fasteners 60 so that opening 24 of plate 22 corresponds to opening 20 of upper surface 16 and leg 253 of first rotating member 242a extends. through opening 20 on top surface 16, brushes (not shown) and opening 24 on plate 22.

[180] Removable plate 26a is mounted to upper arm 18a using fasteners 27. Similarly, removable plate 26a is mounted to upper arm 18b using fasteners 27.

[181] The use of quick coupler 202 to mount an implement, for example a shovel 180, as shown in Figures 11, 12, 15 and 16 on a machine (not shown) will now be described.

[182] Quick coupler 2 is attached to the machine (not shown) with rear wall 32 of quick coupler 2 facing the front of the machine (not shown). Mounting means 6a, 6c, 6c are fixed to complementary mounting means (not shown) on the machine (not shown) by pins (not shown).

[183] The blade 180 has a base 182, sidewalls 184a, 184b and a rearwall 186. The rearwall 186 has a lower lip 188, an upper lip 190 and an outer surface 192. The upper lip 190 has a lower surface 189

[184] The machine with the quick coupler 202 in the unlocked position (as shown in Figures 9 to 12) and the blade 180 are placed in close proximity so that the front wall 30 of the quick coupler 202 is adjacent to the outer surface 192 of the rear wall 186 of the blade 180. The upper arms 18a, 18b are positioned under the upper lip 190 so that the removable plates 26a, 26b contact the lower surface 189 of the upper lip 190. The quick coupler base 14 is aligned with lower lip 188 so that holes 28a, 28b are adjacent to lower lip 188.

[185] To lock the blade 180 in the quick coupler 202, actuator 360 is activated to move the leg 253 of the first rotating member 242a from the position shown in Figures 9 and 10 to the position shown in Figures 13 and 14.

[186] This causes the first pivoting member 242a to rotate in a clockwise direction so that the hook portion 253a of leg 253 is contiguous with pin 249c, the second arm 266 is contiguous with pin 49a and the actuator 360 is moved in an upward direction.

[187] Rotation of the first rotating member 242a causes the first linkage 240a to rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[188] The pivoting movement of the first coupling 240a causes the first locking member 238a to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis F '' which causes the first projection 248a to move downward and extend through from hole 28a in base 14.

[189] First projection 248a engages lower lip 188 of blade 180 to lock blade 180 into quick coupler 202.

[190] When the securing means 208 is in the locked position, upward movement of the first projection 248a is restricted by the resilient connection 240a.

[191] Upward movement of actuator 360 causes third arm 267 of second first rotary member 242b to rotate counterclockwise with respect to geometry axis A '' ', second arm 266 of second first rotary member 242b to rotate counterclockwise with respect to geometry axis D '' 'and first arm 264 of second first rotating member 242b rotate counterclockwise with respect to geometry axis E' '1.

[192] The distance traveled by the second arm 266 of the second first swivel member 242b is limited by the pin 49b against which the second arm 266 is contiguously positioned when the securing means 208 is in the locked position.

[193] The pivotal movement of the second first pivot member 242b causes the second end 262b of the second first coupling 240b to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the geometric axis E '' 'and the first end 262a of the second first coupling 240b to rotate clockwise with respect to the geometric axis F '' '.

[194] The pivoting movement of the second first coupling 240b causes the second locking member 238b to rotate clockwise with respect to the geometric axis F '' ', which causes the second projection 248b to move downward and extend through from hole 28b in base 14.

[195] The second projection 248b engages the lower edge 188 of the blade 180 to lock the blade 180 into the quick coupler 2.

[196] When the securing means 208 is in the locked position, upward movement of the second projection 248b is restricted by the resilient connection 240b.

[197] When the quick coupler 202 is fixed to the blade 180 (as shown in Figure 23), the geometry axis E'1 of the first mechanism above center 236a lies on the first side of a straight line drawn between the geometry axes D '' and F '' and, when the quick coupler is not attached to the blade (as shown in Figure 24), the geometric axis E '' lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D '' and F ''. Similarly (not shown in the Figures), the geometric axis E '' 'of the second mechanism above center 236b lies on a first side of a straight line drawn between the geometric axes D' '' and F '' 'when quick coupler 202 is fixed to blade 180, and when quick coupler 202 is not fixed to blade 180, geometry axis E '' 'lies on a second side of a straight line drawn between geometry axes D' '' and F '' '.

[198] Thus, the first and second projections 248a, 248b are prevented from pushing against actuator 360 when they are in the locked position.

[199] The inclusion of a resilient or spring-loaded first coupling 240a on one side of the securing means 208 and a second first coupling 240b on a second side of the securing means 208 ensures positive engagement of the first and second projections 248a, 248b and holds the clamping means 208 in compression to prevent the clamping means 208 from failing, which may result in disengagement of the first and second projections 248a, 248b of the lower edge 188 of the blade 180.

[200] Inclusion of the solid piston or piston 368 in a hollow cylindrical body 366 having a spring 370 limits upward movement of the first and second projections 248a, 248b to no more than 15 millimeters when the securing means 208 is in the locked position. This ensures clamping engagement every time clamping means 208 is in the locked position.

[201] The position of leg 253 of the first pivoting means 242a through opening 20 on upper surface 16 and opening 24 on plate 22 when the quick coupler 2 is in the unlocked position compared to the position of leg 253 of first swivel means 242a within the quick coupler body 4 (i.e. not visible to an operator) indicates or provides a signal to an operator whether or not the blade 180 is attached to the quick coupler 202.

[202] Providing the body 4 for enclosing the securing means prevents damage to the securing means 208 that is caused by dirt and debris. Providing brushes (not shown) within the plate opening 24 further prevents dirt and debris from entering the quick coupler body 4.

[203] Providing removable plates 26a, 26b in the arm portions 18a, 18b that engage the lower surface 189 of the upper shoulder 190 of the blade 180 increases the quick coupler life cycle 202, as the plates 26a, 26b may be removed from quick coupler 2 when worn and replaced with new unused plates.

[204] In the embodiments described above, quick couplings 2,202 included wear plates 26a, 26b in addition to a body 4 for enclosing securing means 8,208, an above center mechanism 36a, 36b, 236a, 236b and a resilient bond 40a, 40b, 240a, 240b. It will be understood by one of skill in the art that a quick coupler according to the present invention could include any combination of the above advantageous features.

[205] In the embodiments described above, plate 22 has included brushes (not shown) to prevent dirt and debris from entering quick coupler body 4, 202. It will be understood by one skilled person that any suitable means of preventing Dirt and debris ingress into the body can be employed. Alternatively, the openings 20, 24 may be left substantially open.

Claims (29)

1. Quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine, a quick coupler characterized by the fact that it includes at least one mounting means for attaching to a machine and one fastening means for attaching the quick coupler to an implement, wherein the quick coupler additionally includes at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement. Quick coupler according to Claim 1, characterized in that the at least one removable plate is mounted on an upper surface of the quick coupler. Quick coupling according to Claim 2, characterized in that the at least one removable plate is mounted on an upper surface of the quick coupling by at least one gripping means. Quick coupling according to Claim 3, characterized in that the at least one gripping means is a pin. Quick coupler according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one removable plate has a length and the quick coupler has a length and the ratio between the length of the removable plate and the length of the coupling. quick coupler is less than one to three. Quick coupling according to Claim 5, characterized in that the ratio of the length of the at least one removable plate to the quick coupling length is greater than one to six. Quick coupling according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one removable plate is configured to engage under an edge on an implement. Quick coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the at least one removable plate has a surface that engages a lip in an implement in use. Quick coupling according to Claim 8, characterized in that the surface of the at least one removable plate is inclined. Quick coupling according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the at least one removable plate includes a metal material. Quick coupling according to Claim 10, characterized in that the at least one removable plate includes steel. Quick coupling according to any one of Claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it includes at least two removable plates for coupling with a surface of an implement. 13. Quick coupler for mounting an implement on a machine, the quick coupler characterized by the fact that it includes a housing, the housing comprising at least one mounting means for connection to a machine, the housing accommodating a attachment means for attaching the quick coupler to an implement, wherein the attachment means has a first position wherein the quick coupler is attached to an implement and a second position wherein the quick coupler is not attached to an implement, and whereas the housing further includes a first hole through which a portion of the securing means extends when the securing means is in the first position. Quick coupler according to Claim 14, characterized in that the securing means includes a signaling means, the signaling means having a first position for signaling that the quick coupling is attached to an implement when the attachment is provided. securing means is in the first position and a second position to signal that the quick coupler is not attached to an implement when the securing means is in the second position and the housing additionally includes an opening through which a portion of the signaling means can extend. Quick coupling according to Claim 14, characterized in that the portion of the signaling means extends through the opening when the signaling means is in the first position and / or the second position. Quick coupling according to any one of claims 13, 14 or 15, characterized in that the fastening means includes an actuator. Quick coupling according to Claim 16, characterized in that the signaling means is connected to the actuator. Quick coupler according to Claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the actuator is a manual actuator. Quick coupling according to Claim 18, characterized in that the hand actuator comprises a single cable. Quick coupler according to Claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the actuator is an electric actuator. Snap coupling according to any one of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that the opening includes a cover to prevent dirt or debris from entering the housing and through which the portion of the signaling means may extend. Quick coupler according to Claim 21, characterized in that the cover includes a plurality of bristles. Quick coupler according to Claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the cover includes at least one brush. Snap coupling according to any one of claims 13 to 23, characterized in that the at least one mounting means is provided on an outer surface of the housing. Quick coupling according to any one of Claims 13 to 24, characterized in that the at least one mounting means is a socket. Quick coupling according to any one of claims 13 to 25, characterized in that the housing includes a second hole through which a second portion of the securing means extends when the securing means is in the first position. Snap coupling according to any one of claims 13 to 26, characterized in that the housing includes at least one removable coupling plate with a surface of an implement. Quick coupling according to Claim 27, characterized in that the at least one removable plate is a removable plate as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12. 29. Quick coupler characterized by the fact that it is substantially as described herein and / or with reference to the accompanying drawings.